TapouT holding public memorial service for Lewis in April

TapouT on Thursday released additional statements regarding the loss of Co-Founder Charles "Mask" Lewis Jr., as well as initial details regarding a memorial service for the fallen Mixed Martial Arts pioneer.

"We first and foremost want to thank everyone -- TapouT fans, Mixed Marital Arts community and more -- for their kind words and support in the wake of Mask's death," said TapouT co-founder Dan "Punkass" Caldwell. "Whether you're a fan of MMA or not, Charles' goal was to inspire people to make a difference in the world and never settle for anything less than their dreams. With TapouT, he reached more people than we could have ever imagined, and his dedication to the sport and brand will live on forever through his fans around the world."

"Mask was the ultimate entrepreneur," said TapouT President Marc Kreiner. "I'm still in awe of his marketing and business prowess that brought his dream from the back of a pick-up truck to a world-renowned brand. We'll miss his drive and intensity for the business, but the leadership he instilled in the company will carry on."

"Mask was one of the most genuine and honest people I have ever met," said TapouT Crew Member Timothy "Skyskrape" Katz. "He created TapouT as a way to share his passion and energy for MMA with the world, and the inspiration and attitude of TapouT will continue to live on in Mask's memory."

The memorial service, "'Simply Believe': A Celebration of Charles 'Mask' Lewis Jr.," is set for Tuesday, April 14 at 11:00 a.m. at the Crystal Cathedral in Garden Grove, California. The service will be open to the public, and fans and friends alike will gather to pay tribute to the life that taught us that anything is possible if you "Simply Believe."

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